How much does it cost to repair a chain link fence?

Reviewed by Adam Graham remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

A chain link fence is a popular and affordable fencing option. These fences are typically galvanized steel or coated steel wires in a diamond pattern. They are durable, secure, and can be used nearly everywhere. These versatile fences can last 15 to 25 years if regularly maintained and repaired.

The average cost to fix a chain link fence ranges from $250 to $750, with the average homeowner spending around $500 on resetting 1 post, repairing the top rail, and stretching new chain link fencing over the impacted sections. This project’s low cost is $100 to fix simple fence damage. The high cost is $8,000 to replace 4 damaged posts, finish the surface, remove rust, and replace broken top rails.

Cost to Repair Chain Link Fence

Chain Link Fence Repair Cost by Linear Foot

The cost for chain link fence repairs varies widely based on many factors, including the repair type, repairman, and damage. The average cost for chain link fence repairs is $8 to $20 per linear foot. This includes labor and the materials needed to complete the job. The amount of damage done to your chain link fence impacts how expensive the project is, so prices range from $200 to $8,000.

Price to Repair a Chain Link Fence by Finish

The cost of repairing damaged chain link fences is usually influenced by the fence’s finish. The finishing implies extra costs because the repair process must maintain the finish’s quality. There are different finishes for chain link fences, including stainless steel, galvanized steel, aluminum, and vinyl. The most common finish damage includes rust, grass and dirt accumulation, and loose nails. Typically, these damages can happen with any finish, but metal finishes are more susceptible to rust. The average cost of repairing chain link fences with these finishes ranges from $8 to $20 per linear foot.

Chain Link Fence Repair Cost by Type of Repair

The average cost of repairing a damaged chain link fence varies based on the repair. Repairs may include fixing damaged gates, fixing a bent or broken chain link fence post, resetting and mending loose chain link fabrics, or straightening the top rail. Expect to pay between $75 and $300, depending on the repairs.

Repairing Chain Link Fence Fabric

Mesh repairs cost $75 to $200, depending on the fabric damage. Damaged chain link fabrics are easily repaired. In many cases, a professional removes the ruined fabric. You can find two pieces of fabric on either side of the damaged region. Replace the fabric and adjust it. Spot the new fabric in its proper place. If the fabric damage is minimal and has just begun to unravel, they may use a pair of locking pliers to twist the parts into position. If this is the route your contractor takes, keep an eye on this part of the fence. It is likely to be weaker than before with the quick fix.

Chain Link Gate Repair

Chain link fence gate repairs can usually be done easily, typically costing between $100 and $150 for a medium-sized gate. Chain link fence gates are bound to need repairs, so it is important to know how to handle them. Children may find it fun to ride on the gate as it swings, mowers can clip the edges, it can become rusted, or a tree limb may fall on it. Sagging and rust can easily be treated by cleaning the gate and adjusting or replacing the hinges. The mesh on the gate or part of the frame can also be replaced if needed.

Repair Chain Link Fence Top Rail

Chain link fence top rail repairs cost between $120 and $180. A top rail can bend due to a fallen tree limb or children climbing on it. Time also takes a natural toll on the fence, causing the top rail to deteriorate. The damaged section should be removed to insert a new nail into the existing rail. The new rail comes with an open end and a crimped end, which is inserted into the open end of the existing rail.

Chain Link Fence Post Repair

It costs between $140 and $300 to remove and reset a fence post.​ Chain link fence posts sustain damage from the elements and wear. Damages can occur because they were not properly set in concrete from the beginning. However, damages often happen due to rust, weather or a falling object, or something running into the fence. Sometimes, chain link fence post repairs can occur like a leaning fence post. In other cases, a new post is the best solution.

Price to Repair a Chain Link Fence by Type of Replacement

Replace your chain link fence when the repair costs are comparable to installing a new fence section. Chain link is a flexible and easy fencing option. They may have to replace the gate, posts, top rail, or fabric. Repairing chain link gates usually entails replacing damaged pieces due to age, negligence, or collision. The average replacement cost varies between $70 to $450, depending on the part.

Chain Link Fence Fabric Replacement

Fabric replacement costs vary with the area’s size, but they usually range from $70 to $350. Chain link fabric can be seriously damaged from heavy impacts from car crashes or fallen trees in harsh weather. Your contractor removes the destroyed material, replaces the fabric, and makes necessary adjustments to ensure everything fits.

Chain Link Fence Gate Replacement

A chain link fence gate replacement costs $90 to $250 for a medium-sized gate of about 6’ tall. Chain link gates are known for withstanding wear throughout the year. Yet, it is still common for the fabric to thin out and rip. When that damage is too severe, consider replacing the gate. If you detect damage on your chain link gate, you might not be able to repair the parts and must replace the gate. Replace damaged hinges and locks, adjust the gate supports to avoid drooping, or install a new gate.

Replace a Chain Link Fence Post

Expect to pay $175 to $400 to replace a single post on a 6’ tall damaged chain link fence. Major damages usually result from trees falling after a storm, tampering trespassers, or it stretching and popping out of place under snow. Damage to the fence post compromises the fixture’s stability. In this case, replacement is recommended. A new post can be set by digging out the old post, pouring new concrete, setting the new post, and reconnecting the fencing.

Replace a Chain Link Fence Top Rail

If a tree branch falls on the fence, children climb and play on it, or an intruder bends it, the top rail of a chain link fence can become deformed. The average cost of replacement is between $200 and $450. Usually, the fence deteriorates, and the top rail may be destroyed. Simple repairs do not solve this problem, and you should replace the top rail.

Cost to Repair a Chain Link Fence by Problem

You may encounter many chain link fence repairs. While chain link fences are not susceptible to breakage or weakening from extreme temperatures, they are not completely weather resistant. Your fence may begin to lean or sag from wear or something falling on it. In more serious cases, the top rail may bend or break. It is very common for holes or rust to appear because your fence is exposed to the elements. Inclement weather can also cause large objects like trees or poles to fall on your fence. Luckily, most chain link fence repairs are relatively easy and inexpensive. The projects below are for the average 150 linear feet of chain link fence. Expect to pay between $75 and $600 depending on the project.

Chain Link Fence Sagging

Repairing a sagging fence costs $75 to $200. Chain link fences sag due to broken or strained tension wires at the top and bottom, deformation in the chain link material due to dogs leaping against or children climbing over it, and loose posts owing to fractured support. Your hired professionals can strengthen the section of the chain link fence, preventing it from drawing up. Then, they straighten the crimped end of the cable at the fence’s top and untangle the same cable at the bottom with lineman’s pliers. From there, they twist the wire out of the fabric to unweave it and then weave it back in tightly.

Rust on a Chain Link Fence

Expect to pay between $80 to $150 to treat rust on a chain link fence. If you notice your chain link fence is getting rusty, it is best to have it cleaned and protected to safeguard the fence’s structural integrity. Fixing this issue includes removing debris, cleaning the fence with water, and spraying or brushing on a rust inhibitor. You may also consider a specialty paint that covers and inhibits rust to restore your fence’s appearance. It costs $4 to $7 per linear foot.

Repair a Hole in a Chain Link Fence

Repairing a hole in a chain link fence costs $100 to $400. Holes can form from pilferers pushing through a section of your fence. A hole in a chain link fence can be repaired by patching the damaged section. The chain link fence can be cut out around the hole, and a new piece can be cut to fit. Aluminum tie wires can connect the patch to the old fence.

Fix a Leaning Chain Link Fence

Resetting fence posts costs $250 to $600 for the average fence. The posts are usually the problem when a chain link fence is leaning. In most cases, a fence is leaning because the fence posts were not properly set. Tree roots or an object falling on the fence could also cause it to lean. To fix the leaning fence, the posts need to be reset correctly.

Chain Link Fence Loose at the Bottom

It costs $300 to $500 to fix loose chain link fences. A chain link fence can become loose at the bottom, and the issue might extend to the fabric if it is not quickly repaired. This range depends on the damage to the loose area and if new materials can stabilize the fence. Tension wire should be installed by the professional at the fence line. This wire strengthens the bottom, preventing it from drawing up.

Repair a Bent Chain Link Fence

Realigning your bent fence costs $350 to $550, depending on the impacted area’s size. A chain link fence can bend from heavy materials falling on it, such as a tree or people climbing and resting on it. Fixing a bent chain link fence is easy and does not take much time. Typically, your hired contractor removes and resets the bent post or straightens the post out by tightening the wires holding it together. This usually involves removing the top rail to straighten other posts.

Price to Repair a Chain Link Fence by Solution

The average cost of fixing a chain link fence, including materials and labor, varies based on the methods used to fix the damage on the fence. Not every damage type can be fixed with simple repairs, but it is still worth trying before replacing the section. Most simple solutions like patching, mending the fabrics, reinforcing the fence and posts, straightening the post, or painting can solve the problem. Depending on the project, expect to pay $4 to $20 per linear foot.

Paint a Chain Link Fence

A chain link fence costs $4 to $7 per linear foot to paint. This fence needs less paint, but it may still require greater effort based on its age and rust level. After painting, the good news is that maintenance is easy and less expensive. Painting is an affordable solution for avoiding rust problems and gives the fence a refreshing look. Paint can stop new rust from forming and uncover unsightly rust stains on the fence. If the rust has not impacted the fence’s structural integrity, this can be a cost-effective solution for covering age. Ensure you use an oil-based rust-prevention paint.

Reinforce the Bottom of a Chain Link Fence

Reinforcing improves your fence’s strength and durability. Concrete reinforcement costs $4 to $10 per linear foot. Tent stakes are inexpensive and can be found at any home improvement store. These make for the easiest method for strengthening the bottom of your chain link fence. However, concrete is a stronger reinforcement for your chain link fence.

Straighten a Chain Link Fence Post

Straightening a bent fence costs $5 to $15 a linear foot. A chain link fence can bend from various objects falling on it, such as a tree, or humans climbing and resting on it. The professional straightens it out if the fence post is bent, which might not take more than an hour or two, depending on the affected posts. Typically, the top rail is bent, so removing and replacing it fixes the issue. Chain link fences are designed in sections, so removing the mesh covering around the bent sections is not difficult.

Chain Link Fence Patch

Mending or patching a chain link fence costs $8 to $20 per linear foot. It is not uncommon for your fabrics to distort or damage. Chain link fences have high durability and low cost compared to other materials, but you may need to patch it depending on the damage. The fabric can tear from storm damage or wear over time. If the chain link fabric begins to unravel, locking pliers can sometimes twist the parts back into position. Taking off the defective fabric and weaving in a new piece is another simple repair to damaged chain link fencing.

Labor Cost to Repair a Chain Link Fence

Labor costs for chain link fence repairs vary depending on if you hire a general handyman or fencing professional. Either repairman can do simple chain link fence repairs, such as cleaning rust or repairing a hole. More difficult repairs are better left to a professional. Most companies or independent contractors charge per hour. Expect to pay between $50 and $100 per hour for a handyman and $50 and $150 per hour for a fencing professional. A small hole can take an hour or two to fix, but a large sagging, leaning, or rusting fence portion may take over a day. Other contractors may charge per linear foot of chain link fence damages, ranging from $8 to $20 per linear foot. Others charge per project for isolated damages, costing $250 to $750.

Maintenance

After repairs, the homeowner should inspect the fence every few months or after intense weather to check for corrosion, missing or broken links, or damage to the top rails. You should also frequently ensure the gates are working properly. Consider cleaning your chain link fence twice a year. You can use a pressure washer if you have one or buy one for $125 to $235. Another option is to get a pail of hot soapy water and hand-clean your fence. Vinegar is an excellent mold remover if your fence collects trash or dirt.

The good news is most maintenance projects can be performed by the homeowner, but you can also hire a professional to clean your fence more thoroughly. Expect to pay $50 to $150 per hour.

Cost to Repair vs Replace a Chain Link Fence

Smaller damages like loose posts, small fabric holes, or a bent post or top rail can typically be remedied with a repair instead of a full-scale replacement. Average chain link fence repairs cost $250 to $750. Repairs should be done when the damage is noticed in a chain link fence to avoid lengthy and costly work.

When the fence is seriously damaged or maintenance costs more, replacing the fence part is advised. The old fence must be removed. In many cases, your fencing contractor removes and hauls the old chain link fencing away. The chain link removal costs $3 to $5 per linear foot, and removing and replacing the old fencing costs $15 to $45. The average cost for chain link fence replacement ranges from $3,000 to $9,000 to replace 200 linear feet.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Altering Chain Link Fencing’s Size or Location

You can increase your fence’s height or location in many ways. To alter the height, fence posts can be covered with longer posts and new chain link mesh with the same rails going back on top. Expect to pay $18 to $30 per linear foot to increase a 4’ chain link fence to a 6’ fence. Your contractor can use most of the same materials when changing the location, so most costs come from the labor. Expect to pay a professional $10 to $22 per linear foot.

Fabric Screen

Installing a fabric screen is good if you want extra privacy. These screens can also add a pop of color to your yard. They are made of a lightweight material that can be hung outside the fence to allow air to pass through but not light. A fabric screen only lasts a few seasons, and costs start at $1 per linear foot. The price reaches $6 per linear foot for custom designs.

Chain Link Fence Privacy Slats

Slats are another option for more privacy. These are usually sold by the box and can be woven through the fence. They come in many colors and last longer than fabric screens. Expect to pay $4 to $50 per box of slats. The chain link privacy slats cost $3 to $15 per linear foot if a professional inserts the slats.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Clearing the area around the fence. The area around the fence must be cleared before chain link fence repairs. If there are trees, bushes, or other plants, care must be taken to protect or remove them. The average cost to remove a tree is $400 to $1,100. If light trimming is all that is needed, do it yourself or hire a handyman or landscaper and expect to pay $5 to $20 a square foot.
• Permits. A permit should not be needed for chain link fence repairs. However, one is likely needed for a chain link fence replacement. Check with your local town or City Hall before beginning the project. It varies based on the policies in your area. Expect to pay $60 if a permit is required.
• Local utility company. Contact the local utility company to mark underground utility lines and gas pipes if you dig new holes.
• DIY. You can perform chain link fence repairs yourself. There are plenty of tutorials and instructions online for tackling chain link repair projects. However, professionals have the proper tools and experience to perform repairs quickly and correctly, ensuring the repair lasts. You may consider a DIY kit for less complex chain link fence repairs. These are good for fixing small holes in convenient places and typically cost $200.
• Insurance. Insurance usually covers the cost of replacing your fence due to weather-related damage, but there may be some changes if your fence has suffered significant wear, making it vulnerable to harsh weather. The cost and whether your fence is covered depends on your homeowners insurance policy.
• Location/Accessibility. Transport charges and other expenses may be added to your cost based on the price trends in your area and the access to your home. While the materials for chain link fence repairs and installation are easy to access and transport, the charge applies based on the professional’s location and your home accessibility.
• Emergency repair. In case of an emergency repair, the urgency of the repair directly inflates the costs. This is based on the organization or professional performing the repairs for you. Extra charges of $100 or more may apply for emergency repair work.
• Concrete base. A concrete base strengthens the fence posts and prevents animals and pets from crawling through the bottom. It usually implies a repair cost increase for your chain link fence. This increase is solely due to installing the concrete base. A concrete reinforcement installation costs between $4 and $10 per square foot, depending on the slab size and thickness.